Seasonal Variation of Aerosol Types and Absorption in Murcia: An AERONET-Based Study

Abstract

This study leverages high-quality AERONET Sun photometer measurements collected in Murcia from December 2021 to December 2022 to investigate the seasonal variability of aerosol optical properties and identify prevailing aerosol types. The analysis focuses on two critical optical parameters: Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) and Single Scattering Albedo (SSA), exploring their seasonal dynamics across four distinct periods. The results highlight significant seasonal shifts in aerosol composition, with absorbing and scattering aerosol types exhibiting distinct temporal patterns. Desert dust aerosols were predominant in summer, driven by transboundary transport from the Sahara, whereas continental and maritime aerosols dominated during winter and autumn, influenced by local and regional sources. These findings provide a detailed characterization of aerosol behavior in the Murcia region, underscoring its seasonal variability and radiative impacts. Such insights are instrumental in refining regional climate models and enhancing air quality management strategies, particularly in the context of the Mediterranean basin's unique atmospheric conditions.